David

Wise

Quick Facts

• Specialty: Freeski Halfpipe

• Son of Tom and Kathy Wise

• He has two twin sisters, Jessica and Christy

• Began skiing at age three and started skiing professionally at 18

• Following in his father’s footsteps, he was initially a ski racer at Mt. Rose but later switched to freestyle skiing at age 11

• Competed in moguls, aerials, big air and slopestyle 

• Enjoys biking, cliff jumping, fishing, backpacking, playing volleyball and softball

Biographical Information 

David Wise is an American freestyle skier specializing in the halfpipe. Born and raised in Reno, Nevada, Wise, following the family sport, started skiing at the age of three at Sky Tavern, a local ski area. Initially a ski racer at Mt. Rose, Wise found himself drawn to the terrain park, leading to a transition to freestyle skiing at age 11.

Wise's competitive career is highlighted by significant achievements. He won his first national title at age 15. He made his FIS Freestyle Skiing World Cup debut in 2008 and quickly established himself as a leading athlete in the sport. Notably, he became the first Olympic gold medalist in the Men's Freeski Halfpipe at the Olympic Winter Games Sochi 2014, a discipline that debuted that year. He successfully defended his title at the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, securing a second gold medal. 

Beyond his Olympic successes, Wise has earned multiple X Games medals, earning his first gold in 2012. His dedication to the sport is evident in his consistent performance and innovative approach to freestyle skiing.

Off the slopes, Wise is committed to his community, actively participating in youth skiing programs to inspire and mentor aspiring athletes. He has also donated portions of prize money to various charities through the “Podium Challenge,” as well as his sisters’ charity “One Leg Up on Life,” which was founded after his sister Christy lost her leg in a boating accident. In his free time, Wise enjoys biking, playing volleyball and softball.

Olympic Experience

• 3-time Olympian; 3-time Olympic medalist (2 gold, 1 silver)
  • Olympic Games Beijing 2022, silver (Halfpipe - Men)
  • Olympic Games Pyeongchang 2018, gold (Halfpipe - Men)
  • Olympic Games Sochi 2014, gold (Halfpipe - Men)

World Championships Experience

• Most recent: 2023 – 9th (Halfpipe - Men)
• Years of participation: Halfpipe - Men 2009, 2011, 2013, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023
• Medals: 1 (1 gold)
  • Gold – 2013 (Halfpipe - Men)